Expert: Dr Alan Galbraith - 1/24/2008

Question
QUESTION: This is the second time I have taken Aciphex and both times into the second week of taking it my stool color has changed to a dijon mustard color?  Is this a side effect of this med?

ANSWER: Dear Jill

This is very probably due to the Aciphex. I suggest you see your doctor to get tests done to see if your liver function is normal and you do not have gall stones. I would not worry about this as it should not be serious and may be easily corrected.

Regards

Dr Alan Galbraith

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks had bloodwork prior to this and liver is normal plus u/s showed no gallstones two months ago prior to this.  Why would aciphex cause this?  Also, I thought gallstones produce clay or pale colored stool this is a yellowy brown.

ANSWER: Dear Jill

It is not known how Aciphex can cause this, in fact most adverse effects of drugs are of unknown origin.

You are correct in the colour of faeces with gall stones if there is almost complete blockage of the bile duct. However, partial blockage with liver problems can cause varying from yellow to pale and grey. Since your liver appears to be OK I would not worry about this colour change since this colour could be considered to be within the normal range of faecal colour.

Regards

Alan Galbraith

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: thanks for the answers.  Just one more question.  Would the color come and go if it was a partial blockage?  Would a negative u/s showing no stones rule out gallstone issues?

Answer
The colour could come and go. i take it you are not getting any pain from above the umbilicus or in the right shoulder which can be indicative of stones.  A negative ultrasound is not 100% certain and a lot depends on the skill of the sonographer.

I really think you have nothing to worry about  and do not think it necessary to stop the Aciphex but be vigilant.

Regards

Alan Galbraith